In July 2018, Melissa gave birth to Matthew, a healthy 7-pound baby boy. Just months later, she learned she was pregnant again with Mirabella. During this second pregnancy, complications arose, and in June 2019, Melissa was hospitalized and placed on dialysis. Her doctors recommended that she stay at Ronald McDonald House® Long Beach.
At the time, she was hesitant and unsure about staying in an unfamiliar place in case of an emergency. But as her condition worsened and a C-section was recommended, Melissa made the decision to stay.
Her daughter, Mirabella Cruz, was born prematurely and spent 80 days in the NICU. Eventually, the family was able to take her home, grateful for her progress and recovery. But just as one chapter closed, another opened with unimaginable news: in June 2022, Matthew was diagnosed with Type “ALL” leukemia. His condition quickly became critical—he had four tumors; his organs were failing, and doctors placed him in a coma.
Amid this overwhelming crisis, Ronald McDonald House® Long Beach once again became a refuge for the Gastelum family. It offered them more than a place to stay; it gave them stability, comfort, and a community that stood beside them in their most difficult moments.
Melissa and her family are deeply grateful to the staff and volunteers who brought light into their darkest days. Their compassion, kindness, and tireless dedication provided the Gastelum’s hope, friendship, and love when they needed it most.
